City Breaks: Quick Guide to Visiting Paris

Paris is a destination that’s on most people’s bucket list and rightly so, the city provides visitors with some incredible experiences that you won’t find anywhere else, and is a city where you’ll be sure to experience French culture first hand. Paris is also a city that’s easily visited for short city breaks, or longer, making it the perfect travel destination.

If you’re planning your first trip to this beautiful city then look no further. Here is your city guide to visiting Paris, including what to do, where to stay, getting around, and other helpful tips.

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About Paris

Paris, the capital of France, is a major city in Europe and has a population of over 2 million. The city has 20 districts with most of the tourist attractions being in the innermost districts 1-10. Throughout the city you’ll find large luxurious boulevards, cafés, passageways, grand shopping malls, as well as impressive architecture and landmarks. Running through the centre of the city also runs the River Seine and the historic district along the river is a UNESCO Heritage Site.

What to see and do

Here are some of the highlights and things to see and do in Paris.

Eiffel Tower: Starting with the most obvious thing to do in Paris, this 1063 foot high iron tower is famous around the world. Whether you venture up it, or just admire from the ground it’s a must-see attraction.

Visit museums: Paris is inundated with fantastic museums, including the famous Louvre housing the Mona Lisa. Others definitely worth visiting include Petit Palais and Musée d’Orsay.

Notre-Dame de Paris: This gothic style cathedral built in the middle ages is another must-visit landmark. You can head inside for free, or head up the towers to see the bells and admire views of the city.

Explore Paris’s best Instagram and photography spots: Paris is a dream for photographers with incredible locations all throughout the city. Make sure your batteries are charged and your memory cards empty and you’ll be sure to come back with lots of wonderful pictures from your trip.

The Catacombs: A more creepy but fascinating experience, the catacombs are below Paris and date back to the 18th century. They contain the skeleton remains of millions of Parisians. When visiting you’ll get to wander through dark tunnels among the bones and learn about its history and why it was created.

Arc de Triomphe: Completed in 1836 the Arc de Triomphe is located in the centre of the Place Charles de Gaulle (Place de l’Étoile), the busiest roundabout in the city which connects 12 avenues. Visit to watch the constant stream of traffic, or head up to the terrace to enjoy the cities skyline.

Montmartre, Paris

Where to stay

Whether you want a luxury experience or are visiting on a budget, you’ll be sure to find lots of options to suit all needs. Here are some top accommodation options to consider during your visit.

Budget – Generator Paris – This stylish hostel is highly rated and offers dormitory rooms for a low price – perfect for backpackers. The hostel is fairly central and half a mile from the closest metro station.

Mid-range – Idol Hotel – A very cool hotel with bright vibrant decor inspired by movies from the 60s and 80s.

Luxury –Prince de Galles – One of the cities most beautiful luxury hotels in a prime location. The hotel offers the highest quality service, stunning art deco style rooms, as well as housing it’s very own Michelin Star restaurant, La Scène.

Art Delux rooms at Prince de Galles Paris

When to go

Paris can be visited at any time of year although some of the prettiest moments will be found between Spring and Autumn. Also, consider December where you’ll enjoy the Christmas markets.

Getting around Paris

Arriving to the city

Paris is very much an international hub and very accessible. Your find a huge range of connections such as flying into Charles de Gaulle Airport, via national train services or Eurostar, or even from international bus services such as Flixbus.

Within the city

Once in the city Paris is easy to navigate and many parts of the city are nice to enjoy on foot. Such as along the River Seine and various other parts of the city. In terms of public transport the RATP system is extensive, affordable and includes the Paris Métro, bus and trams. Other ways to get around include bikes, taxies and Uber.

Metro

General tips and info for visiting Paris

Paris is a Euro-based city and you’ll be able to pay by card or cash. However, try and remember cash for smaller businesses, some attractions, as well as for tipping.

The national language is French although often the staff at attractions, shops and hotels can speak English. If you can, then learn a few words before your visit, as the Parisians will definitely appreciate the effort.

Embrace the culture such as if you find the service at some restaurants a bit unusual and somewhat to be desired then laugh it off as just an interesting experience.